10 Life Lessons You'll Learn From The IKEA 2017 Catalog

As the design world anticipates the official debut of the IKEA 2017 catalog on August 8, the company has offered us a peek at this year's theme: imperfection.

According to the Swedish retailer, "A lot of people feel pressured in their everyday life. IKEA wants to help people say 'goodbye' to stress and 'hello' to the joy of cooking, eating and being together."

In other words, toss those unrealistic expectations and have some fun instead.

In case you're curious what that looks like, check out screenshots from the catalog's promo video below. Consider it a crash course in valuable life lessons (like not sweating the small stuff).

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1It's Totally OK To Stash Snacks Under Your Coffee Table

IKEA

Because, sometimes, a living room dinner party is more fun than a dining room dinner party. Especially when there are spicy condiments involved.

2Stools Are The Solution To Any Casual Soiree

IKEA

Looking to sip soup with your pals? Discuss politics? Replace a couch? Whatever the need, a stool is the answer. If you can add candlesticks for atmosphere, that's a nice touch too.

This woman looks like she's having a great time. Maybe she's jamming to some Jessie J, or some Beyonce? Note of caution if you try this: Keep. Your. Eyes. On. The. Stove. No kitchen timer will be heard through those headphones.

5Go Ahead, Wipe Your Hands Off On Your Shirt

IKEA

As with Life Lesson #3, the universe (or, well, IKEA) has deemed this an acceptable maneuver that does not make you a gross human being. Rejoice!!

6There's No Use Crying Over Water That's Boiling Over

IKEA

Just think of it this way: It'll probably kind of clean your grates. Plus, you're too busy rocking out to your cooking playlist to really care about a few dribbles here and there.

7A Bed Can (And Should) Double As A Fort

IKEA

IKEA furniture is meant to be customizable, so why not turn it into a castle-slash-fort while someone is sleeping soundly inside? You only live once, people.

8Playing Pranks On Sleeping People Never Gets Old

IKEA

On the note of sleeping soundly, no napper shall ever escape the devious jokes of pranksters. If you see someone snoozing, promptly place a crown on their head. Or of course, try the ol' whipped cream in the hand trick — depending on the level of trickery you're comfortable with.

9Organization Is Slightly Overrated

IKEA

In your office space, you should probably keep your folders on projects, reports, accounting, clients and mysterious documents together. But just for fun, throw in a binder on recipes! As author Germaine Greer once said: The essence of pleasure is spontaneity.

10Working In Your Underwear Is A Nice Experience

IKEA

In one video, a man in a suit works at what looks like an office desk, but then stands up to reveal he's clad in underwear from the waist down. He then proceeds to dance. This is probably a really good way to lower blood pressure and live your best (and longest) life. Thanks, IKEA.

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